NOVA SCOTIA ORDER BY MAY 3, 2010
OFFERING 195
Bordeaux The wines of SouthBergerac Africa, and New Zealand and Australia
Château Grand Corbin-Despagne - 1929: A door to paradise!
CELLAR OFFERING 195 Bergerac and Bordeaux
For two centuries the wines of Bordeaux have occupied the focal point for wines sold in international markets. This position was confirmed in 1855 when a classification of Bordeaux wines established the “pecking order” for price and quality that has remained pertinent up to the present day. Naturally, there have been attacks on Bordeaux’s preeminent position, particularly when Steven Spurrier, the renowned English wine enthusiast, held the famous “Judgement of Paris” tasting of 1976, when a Cabernet Sauvignon from California scored better than some of the most prestigious wines of Bordeaux. Through all attempts to re-draw the guidelines, the wines of Bordeaux remain today the torch bearer for wines of all prices and styles. In the wide variety found in Bordeaux vineyards there are wines to please every palate and pocketbook.
About the cover: Ivanhoé Johnston of SEMAV has had several opportunities to taste the 1929 vintage. He describes the wine as dark, youthful, perfumed, rich, complex with some cherry fruit and leather. He proclaims, “It must be tasted…it is a door to paradise!”
Bergerac Wines of Philip and Marianne Mallard’s
CHÂTEAU PIQUE-SÈGUE Once part of the Bordeaux region of interlocking appellations, Bergerac considered itself overlooked by the Bordeaux hierarchy and so separated to follow its fortunes alone. There are now 13 denominations, covering 1200 growers in 93 communes producing 85 million bottles. Among those from Bergerac’s vineyards a few, like Château Pique-Sègue, become radiant stars that flourish in international markets.
Doughnut - Marianne and Philip's Staffordshire Bull-Terrier sits in front of their best Merlot
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 195
BERGERAC CHÂTEAU PIQUE-SÈGUE >>
5551
CHÂTEAU PIQUE-SÈGUE, AC CÔTES DE MONTRAVEL, 2008
Try as an “apéritif à la Française”, well-chilled
$26.17
Grape Variety
Sauvignon Gris, Semillon, Muscadelle
Aroma
Custard cream, honeyed, floral
Taste
Supremely elegant, delicate if decadently rich
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Enjoy from now until 2020
Ideal with
Rich terrines, foie gras, blue cheese
6 BTLS/750 ML $157.00
The pleasure of opening a bottle of dessert wine is finding the contents clean with fine balance between the fixed fruit acidity and the grape sugars. The Mallards’ dessert wine is made from grapes picked only when fully mature and after the dehydrating grapes have developed botrytis cinerea [noble rot] leaving behind concentrated sugar. This is perfection. The light golden colour is clear and limpid. The nose emphasizes ripe pears, apples and honey while the palate reveals notes of pears and mango. [05] M6 D7
5552
CHÂTEAU PIQUE-SÈGUE BLANC, AC MONTRAVEL, 2009 $21.50
6 BTLS/750 ML $129.00
The vineyards are situated on the last hills of the SaintÉmilion escarpment where the white “argilo-calcaire” subsoil, rich in “tuff”, provides the perfect terroir for the white grapes. After harvesting, the fruit was chilled for twelve hours during which enzyme changes resulted in elevated perfumes and flavour. Fermentation at controlled temperatures was followed by maturation on the lees. The final product is a wellbalanced, fruity and generous dry white with aromas of grapefruit, pineapple citrus and passion fruit. As an entry level wine, this is simply amazing. [00] M7 D8
5553
Grape Variety
Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Muscadelle
Aroma
Bags of fresh white fruit
Taste
Generous pineapple and tropical fruits
Serve
8° - 10° C
Evolution
Enjoy its vigour
Ideal with
Fried herring fillets with a lime and pepper crust
CHÂTEAU PIQUE-SÈGUE, AC BERGERAC ROSÉ, 2009 $21.67
6 BTLS/750 ML $130.00
There is no better reason to throw open the doors and invite a crowd in than to celebrate the arrival of Marianne’s stellar Rosé. This is the wine that originally took us to Château Pique-Sègue. Then, as now, it was an object lesson on how to make Rosé. Delicate, fruity and crisp, the grapes for this “rosé d’une lune” were pressed after being left to macerate for one night during which the pale, delicate colour tinted the crush. After pressing, the juice was cleaned to avoid any flavours that do not directly relate back to the grapes. The rich aroma features red berries, raspberries, wild strawberry and blackcurrant. [00] M8 D9
5554
A dry white matured on the lees
CHÂTEAU PIQUE-SÈGUE ROUGE, AC BERGERAC, 2008 $21.50
6 BTLS/750 ML $129.00
Over recent years the Mallards have sunk a fortune in building a series of glass-lined concrete tanks which they consider to be better than steel for the fermentation of red wines. The winemaking is traditional, each plot of vines being constantly monitored to assess perfect phenological maturity. This is one of a few local wineries to use microoxygenation to soften the structure and enhance the fruit levels while building more complexity and immediate appeal. Opaque in colour with a nose of dark fruits and mint, the silky tannins mix with black cherries and spice galore. M7 D7
BERGERAC CHÂTEAU PIQUE-SÈGUE >>
The quintessential “quaffer” Grape Variety
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
Aroma
Small, refined, flowers, red fruit
Taste
Fine acidity, easy, accentuated berry notes
Serve
10° C
Evolution
To allow it to age would be criminal
Ideal with
Barbecues, sardines
The best red Bergerac to be found Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
Aroma
Dominated by black cherry and redcurrants
Taste
Rich, silky, intense with piquant, spicy flavours
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Enjoy now or keep to allow softer characteristics to evolve
Ideal with
Chicken, pasta dishes
NOVA SCOTIA
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5555
CHÂTEAU DAUZAN LA VERGNE, AC CÔTES DE BERGERAC, 2008 $29.17
6 BTLS/750 ML $175.00
When each parcel was perfectly mature, the grapes were hand-picked and only the best bunches used. They were gathered cold in the dawn light and then crushed into small temperature controlled tanks. The newly fermented wine was held on the lees for ten days at raised temperatures to leach out remaining colour and extract. Twelve months in oak enriched the structure while adding oak nuances and wood tannins. Beautifully poised and seductively fruity, it displays a pure enticing nose of black cherries, eucalyptus and mocha followed by brambly spice, raspberries and cedar wrapped in mellowing tannins. M6 D6
Ripe fruit with a firm connection to the terroir Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
Aroma
Blackberries with warm spice, dried black fruits, leather
Taste
Generous, ripe fruit, a pepper-herb tone
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Time required for the highlights to harmonize, drink 2012 - 2016
Ideal with
Roasted pork tenderloin steaks with cranberry and sour apple sauce
MEDAL WINNER CASE DAUZAN LA VERGNE, AC CÔTES DE 5556 CHÂTEAU BERGERAC, 3 BOTTLES EACH : 2004 & 2005 $35.33
6 BTLS/750 ML $212.00
Both the 2004 and 2005 vintages of the Château Dauzan La Vergne were successful although quite different, particularly so as they have matured. The 2004 is less full-bodied, but has a perfectly balanced array of the components that are presented in a classic wine from Bordeaux. The younger wine, fat and full-bodied has unctuous, ripe fruit, the notes all point to black fruit and carefully controlled oak tannins. Philip Mallard, believing that many wine lovers open their wines too young, holds back a proportion of his production each year so that he can offer fully mature wines from his library. Both wines are now well-developed. 2004: M8 D8 Prix Tradition Vins de Bergerac 2005: M6 D7 Prix des Vinalies
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 195
Château Pique-Sègue Vallée de Jampeau
BERGERAC CHÂTEAU PIQUE-SÈGUE
Bordeaux
Château de Sours wild flowers
MARTIN KRAJEWSKI AND CHÂTEAU DE SOURS A perfect partnership
Martin never intended to own a Bordeaux Château; he stumbled into it at just the moment the French heritage authorities had condemned the property. With the same energy that he devoted to his career in London, he drafted in teams of stonemasons, restored the building, then set out to make the wines the finest of the whole appellation.
BORDEAUX CHÂTEAU DE SOURS >>
NOVA SCOTIA
5
5557
RICHEMONT DU CHÂTEAU DE SOURS BLANC, AC BORDEAUX, 2009 $19.67
12 BTLS/750 ML $236.00
When picking of the white grapes ended on September 11th, Martin’s winemaking team agreed that the fruit was as good as any they had ever seen. The Richemont cuvée is largely Semillon, which gives the palate full-bodied definition, with a small percentage of Sauvignon Blanc. It has a pale green colour with well-integrated richness and style, a slight grapefruit lift and tantalizing notes of honeysuckle, passion fruit and crisp mineral. A touch of vanilla balances lemon freshness and fine acidity. [00] M8 D8
5558
CHÂTEAU DE SOURS BLANC, AC BORDEAUX, 2009 $29.00
6 BTLS/750 ML $174.00
Since 2004, when Martin became owner, there has been a deliberate upward movement in every facet of production leading to improved quality. Coming from older vines, the 2009 is a complex wine with a pale silver green hue and an enticing aroma of vanilla, white peaches, pineapple, liquorice and lily of the valley. In the mouth it has a textured roundness with crisp mineral and spice and a touch of vanilla to balance the attack of lemon acidity. [00] M7 D8
5559
LA SOURCE DU CHÂTEAU DE SOURS BLANC, AC BORDEAUX, 2008 $50.17
6 BTLS/750 ML $301.00
Everything about this brilliant wine is hand-crafted, from the individual bunch selection at the time of hand-picking, to the work with the grapes in the winery. The chilled, clean juice is racked into new and once-used French oak barrels for fermentation, during which wooden batons are used to stir the barrels to draw out every possible nuance of flavour and perfume from the lees. Silver gold in colour, it offers a fine display of fresh citric fruit, especially grapefruit, with lychee and far away notes of honey on the palate. The use of oak has clearly added to the expansive complexity. [00] M6 D7
5560
RICHEMONT DU CHÂTEAU DE SOURS ROUGE, AC BORDEAUX, 2008 $19.67
12 BTLS/750 ML $236.00
We watched the planting of this part of the vineyard with a group of Opimian tourists and now, with the 2008 vintage, our chickens are coming home to roost! The grapes were machine-picked under perfect conditions in the cool early morning of mid-October. They were then taken for immediate crushing, with some free-run juice taken off to increase colour and concentration. Aged for a year in small French oak, it has a bright and clear appearance. The nose is soft with fine Merlot elegance showing sweet and concentrated blackberry and blackcurrant flavours with a hint of leather and vanilla. M7 D8
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 195
Fresh and refined, it is absolutely delightful Grape Variety
Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc
Aroma
Citrus tones, minerality
Taste
Smooth and clean, small oak notes deliver a textural finish
Serve
10° C
Evolution
Enjoyable now and until 2012
Ideal with
Crab salad with boiled Jersey Royal new potatoes and brown bread
Bursting with fruit flavours, a simply delicious wine! Grape Variety
Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc
Aroma
Herbaceous, grapefruit and lime juice
Taste
Rich, textured, a mineral seam balanced by mouth-watering fruit acid
Serve
10° C
Evolution
Start to enjoy this year, carry on through 2012
Ideal with
Smoked salmon and spinach roulade
A classic wine in the PessacLeognan style Grape Variety
Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon
Aroma
Fragrant mélange of lemon blossom with notes of grapefruit and beeswax
Taste
Lively, clean and zippy
Serve
10° C
Evolution
It drinks well now, but will continue to develop over two to three years, drink 2011 - 2015
Ideal with
Ricotta Tortellini, monkfish with red pepper-basil sauce
Elegant, Merlot-dominated Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Concentrated, ripe red and black fruits
Taste
Fine black fruit, ripe tannins, smooth, elegant texture
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Not long in bottle, but it is easy now and drinks well as a lunchtime claret
Ideal with
Rack of lamb in a ginger, honey and herb glaze
BORDEAUX CHÂTEAU DE SOURS >>
5561
CHÂTEAU DE SOURS ROUGE, AC BORDEAUX, 2008 $29.67
6 BTLS/750 ML $178.00
The perennial darling of wine writers, it is used in comparison with wines of the greatest estates to give an example of excellence at reasonable cost. A blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon it comes from old vines planted on the limestone plateau at Ballyeran where the soil, an easydraining mixture of pebbles and fine sand, provides perfect balance for the grapes. Vibrant with a deep colour, it has an attractive, rich nose of coffee, leather, pepper and sweet, ripe black fruit all bundled together with tannins which give both length and structure to the finish. M6 D6
5562
LA SOURCE DU CHÂTEAU DE SOURS ROUGE, AC BORDEAUX, 2008 $54.33
6 BTLS/750 ML $326.00
A great example of fine Merlot, it benefits from a small bite of Cabernet which augments the balance and firms up the structure. Dark, almost black, the nose is a fine harmony of ripe blackcurrants, cedar, tar, spice and sandalwood followed into the mouth by juicy black fruit, cherries and unctuous black olives. It used to be priced at a higher level, but Martin has agreed to make it more available to our members. In limited supply, mortgage the house, but order a case! M5 D6
This wine should reach every cellar Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
Aroma
Brambles entice the nose, followed by dark chocolate and layers of herbal, earthy tones
Taste
Soft and fleshy, loaded with dark berry fruit
Serve
19° C
Evolution
Rewards careful ageing and will continue to improve, drink 2012 - 2018
Ideal with
Pan-fried calf’s liver, bacon and mashed potatoes
A very small, almost selfexcluding production Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
Aroma
Rammed full of blackcurrant, violets, cinnamon, black olives, sweet soy sauce
Taste
Fine-grained tannins build across the wine
Serve
19° C
Evolution
Careful cellaring will surely reward, drink 2013 2020
Ideal with
Roast grouse with gin and juniper berry sauce Entrance to Château de Sours
BORDEAUX CHÂTEAU DE SOURS
NOVA SCOTIA
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CLOS CANTENAC Saint-Émilion, Grand Cru The brilliance of winemaker Sébastien Lamothe persuaded Martin Krajewski to join a close friend from New Zealand in the purchase with Sébastien of this outstanding property. Sébastien’s untimely death a year later was a total shock. In tribute, Martin continues his dynamic development of the property. A new and talented winemaker, Florent Dumeau, has grasped the challenge of bringing these two fine wines to the market.
The fruit of their labour at Clos Cantenac
5563
PETIT CANTENAC, AC SAINT-ÉMILION GRAND CRU, 2008
Black fruit and spices on both nose and palate
$41.33
Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon
Aroma
Sweet, earth notes intermixed with ripe berry fruit, cassis, liquorice and leather
Taste
Spicy and medium-bodied with moderate tannins that will stay with the fully mature wine
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Modern style with easy fruit, drink 2012 - 2018
Ideal with
A fine roast of well hung game meat
6 BTLS/750 ML $248.00
The vineyard is only seven acres in size and its two vintage releases were sold out almost as soon as they were offered. Opimian is delighted to be named on the client list. With a huge reputation, the wine cannot be bought for love or money. A blend of the three major Bordeaux vines, the youthful and deep colour introduces the bouquet of intense, ripe fruit, oak smoke and ground pepper spice. The power of the bouquet fills the palate with rich notes of chocolate, mulberry, earth and tar resulting in a sturdy, muscular structure of massive promise, needing a little time to show its best. M6 D6
5564
CLOS CANTENAC, AC SAINT-ÉMILION GRAND CRU, 2008 $60.00
6 BTLS/750 ML $360.00
Everything written to describe Petit Cantenac can be multiplied by two. This is a careful selection of the handful of casks chosen by rigorous and regular tasting, then set apart for eventual blending before bottling. Apart from the cases reserved for Opimian members, the wine is practically sold out on its first day on the market. It is deep, redblack through the glass right up to the rim, with an alluring nose of creamed black fruits, some spice and a hint of cedar. On the palate, crunchy red and black fruit, good depth and spice and mocha with fine, supple tannins go through to a long, black finish. Refined, it is smooth, yet subtly powerful. M5 D5
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 195
This is sublimely superb Grape Variety
Merlot
Aroma
Vanilla, pine, an assortment of ripe berries
Taste
Intense, rich, layered, incredible finesse
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Save for opening from 2013, will go on for a decade
Ideal with
Leg of autumn lamb braised in red Bordeaux
BORDEAUX CLOS CANTENAC
VINOMA, PINEUILH, GIRONDE Angelita and Michel Bauce, living the dream Angelita and Michel Baucé withdrew to their home on the far eastern edge of the Bordeaux region when the supplier, through whom they worked with Opimian, closed down. They produced a fine vintage in their own vineyards and started their own négociant business. Opimian appreciated the attention that both had given when working with their defunct company and stayed with them as they started their new venture.
5567
CHÂTEAU MOULIN DE LAUNAY, AC ENTRE-DEUXMERS, 2008, CLAUDE AND BERNARD GREFFIER $18.50
6 BTLS/750 ML $111.00
The Greffiers are fourth generation farmers on their 170 acre vineyards in the geographic heart of the Entre-deuxMers. The vineyards stretch from horizon to horizon, thirty kilometres of an endless carpet of pale green, waving in the breeze coming from the Atlantic to cool the vines through the summer. As the grapes neared maturity they were green-harvested to gain maximum sunlight and concentrate their extract. Night-harvesting was followed by crushing and a short period of skin contact to draw out fruit flavours. It was then fermented and rested on the lees for ten months. The result is vigorous, a wine with finely balanced acidity, lime, orange, and asparagus aromas, a lush palate and integrated yellow fruit flavours. [00] M8 D8
BORDEAUX VINOMA, PINEUILH, GIRONDE >>
From a vineyard producing exclusively dry white wine Grape Variety
Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadelle
Aroma
Pungent, herbaceous, exotic fruit
Taste
Well-balanced, steely, long-lasting flavour
Serve
9° C
Evolution
Perfect, it has softened significantly over the past year
Ideal with
As an aperitif, grilled fish
NOVA SCOTIA
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5568
CHÂTEAU LES BOIS NOIRS, AC BORDEAUX BLANC, ORGANIC, 2009, MICHEL BAUCÉ $18.67
6 BTLS/750 ML $112.00
This is one of the organic wines that Michel and Angelita worked hard to establish over a probationary period of three years. It is a delicious white, the perfect counterpart to the perennially popular red wine from the Château. The bouquet exudes creamy, tropical fruit alongside fresh, acidic grapefruit. With an intense nose, the smooth texture suggests the concentration of ripe Semillon. Young, but already drinking well, it is showing the high quality of Bordeaux's latest vintage. [00] M7 D7
5569
CHÂTEAU LES BOIS NOIRS, AC BORDEAUX, MOELLEUX, ORGANIC, 2008, MICHEL BAUCÉ $18.83
6 BTLS/750 ML $113.00
In the moments before the picking started Michel looked into a crystal ball and gambled that the fine harvest weather would continue. This gave him a chance to process the early-picked grapes while the ripest bunches were left on the vines for another two weeks of halcyon weather. During this period, sugar levels rose as the grapes continued to ripen. Far from sweet, it is somewhere away from dry with its mesh of orange, lime peel, straw, even nuances of hay. On the palate, the wine has good penetration, refined acidity showing elegance and a modest degree of residual sugar providing a velvety finish. [03] M7 D7
5570
CHÂTEAU HAUT-BERGERON, AC SAUTERNES, 2007, HERVÉ AND PATRICK LAMOTHE $46.00
6 BTLS/375 ML $276.00
2007 was a fine year for the development of the botrytis mould, “noble rot” that dries out the grapes, while changing the juice by adding succulent flavours of sweet honey and tropical fruit nectar. The Lamothe family has been here since the 1800s, acquiring small plots to build up their vineyards to almost 150 acres which now rank very high in the Sauternes hierarchy. The wine has a heady bouquet, an amalgamation of honey, crystallized ginger, pineapple and peaches. In the mouth it has a rich texture, delicious, sweet and balanced from the almond nuttiness to the long and lush finish. [08] M5 D8
5571
CHÂTEAU LES BOIS NOIRS, AC BORDEAUX, ORGANIC, 2009, MICHEL BAUCÉ $18.83
6 BTLS/750 ML $113.00
Away from the bustle of the city of Bordeaux, at the eastern edge of the region, a long hill leads to the traditional Aquitaine farmhouse that is both home and business for Michel and Angelita. The house is surrounded by the vineyards of Les Bois Noirs, fourteen hectares with a southerly exposure where the red vines average forty-two years of age and produce a small, organically certified yield. Before buying this vineyard, Michel searched for three years to find, what he calls, “his pearl”. Made with a large proportion of Merlot, the wine has a toasted cassis nose broadened by blackberry and dark cherry fruit. Retaining energy and weight, it is a powerhouse with good balance and length. M6 D7
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 195
Upfront fruit, young and versatile Grape Variety
Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadelle
Aroma
Exotic fruits, white peaches, grassy
Taste
Quite fleshy, peachy, citrus fruit, dry finish
Serve
9° C
Evolution
Clearly it is young, but it is very appealing now
Ideal with
Grilled sea bass with mango, grapefruit and avocado salad
Off-dry, charming Grape Variety
Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadelle
Aroma
Peaches, white fruit, elderflowers
Taste
Soft, easy, good acidity packs in the flavours
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Can be enjoyed now, but there will be more development
Ideal with
Baked ham with apricot, pear and apple salad
A winner of 89 medals since 1963 Grape Variety
Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadelle
Aroma
Huge nose, a pot of honey mixed with peaches
Taste
Big, delicious, sweet, long and robust
Serve
8° C
Evolution
It will mature slowly and if well-cellared, it will last for half a century
Ideal with
As an after dinner sipping wine, foie gras, smoked salmon
This is a benchmark Bordeaux Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Complex, seductive blackcurrant fruit and spice
Taste
Fresh red berries
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Firm, tannic, needs some time to soften
Ideal with
Beef tenderloin steaks with smoky baconbourbon sauce
BORDEAUX VINOMA, PINEUILH, GIRONDE >>
5572
CHÂTEAU LE PRÉ DE LA LANDE, CUVÉE FAMILLE CLASSIQUE, AC SAINTE-FOY DE BORDEAUX, ORGANIC, 2009, MICHEL BAUCÉ $18.83
6 BTLS/750 ML $113.00
After buying this property, Michel began to work towards organic certification for the wines by rejecting the use of artificial fertilizers and treatments which, over time, allowed the soil to return to its natural, low nutrients condition. This lowered the crop size and increased complexity and concentration. Bottled after a brief passage through oak, it shows a vivid purple colour that mirrors the striking aromas filled with juicy, red fruit notes with a dash of pepper and flavours that come from freshly squashed red berries. This wine can be opened soon or be put away for two or three years to acquire the full characteristics of maturity. M6 D7
5573
CHÂTEAU HAUT NIVELLE, AC BORDEAUX SUPÉRIEUR, 2007, VIGNOBLES LE POTTIER $20.50
6 BTLS/750 ML $123.00
This is a Château with two histories. It was developed during and after the Great War and then flourished until the catastrophic frosts of 1956 which coincided with a financial crash that wrecked the sale of subsequent vintages and saw the property slide into disrepair. The second chapter began in 1986 when the Le Pottiers migrated from the north and set about reconstructing the house and vineyards. There are now seventy acres under production. The 2007 has lovely, typical Bordeaux red pigment offering a warm heart that shows nuances of coffee, chocolate and spice, all trimmed with lively freshness and a faint note of cassis. M7 D7 The final stage of production - loading the containers
BORDEAUX VINOMA, PINEUILH, GIRONDE >>
A powerful, broad-shouldered attack in the mouth Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Lively, juicy, piquant spice
Taste
Refreshing acidity currently conceals the tannins, but nothing can hide the vivid red fruit
Serve
16° - 18° C
Evolution
As a young “sprinter” it can be enjoyed this year, but it has the capacity to age for ten years
Ideal with
Barbecue, Thai-style spare ribs, sausage
A dedicated and talented winemaking family Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Fine, already showing complex development and an easy style
Taste
Medium-bodied with soft tannins and a long, fleshy finish
Serve
18° C
Evolution
A steel tank matured wine, the low tannin level will bring it forward, drink 2010 - 2014
Ideal with
Roast turkey with herbed bread stuffing and giblet gravy
Château le Pré de la Lande under a rainbow
NOVA SCOTIA
11
Angelita Baucé at Château les Bois Noirs
5574
CHÂTEAU LES BOIS NOIRS, CUVÉE ANGELITA, AC SAINTE-FOY DE BORDEAUX, 2006, MICHEL BAUCÉ $22.33
6 BTLS/750 ML $134.00
This is Michel’s best wine, named in tribute to his wife, Angelita, his partner in all aspects of this venture. Once the fruit was perfectly ripe, Michel divided the pickers into two teams, the first picked only the best bunches which were kept apart and reserved for this label. Once fermentation was completed, the wine was kept on the skins to extract the grape tannin and then racked into oak for fourteen months, giving it a silky texture. The dense purple colour and blackberry and cassis aroma lead into the palate where a juicy mid-section shows the outstanding purity of the fruit. The finish is finely balanced with small oak nuances. M7 D7
5575
CHÂTEAU LE BREUIL, AC CÔTES DE BOURG, 2008, HENRI & LAURENT DOYEN $22.33
6 BTLS/750 ML $134.00
Standing about 200 metres from the Gironde, this eighteen hectare estate makes one of the best Côtes de Bourg wines. It has been owned by the Doyen family since the beginning of the last century, but under the current management of Henri Doyen, it has been making wines with considerable fruit extraction and suppleness. Yields from the twenty year old vines are kept low resulting in remarkable concentration. Medium-bodied with classic blackcurrant overtones and fleshy fruitiness, it has a well-defined cigar box nose with hints of blackberry. The palate is dry with pronounced acidity making this a serious food wine. M7 D7
5576
CHÂTEAU VIEUX SAULE, AC BORDEAUX CÔTES DE FRANCS, 2005, THIERRY MORO $23.33
6 BTLS/750 ML $140.00
The consultant winemaker, Raphaël Verdier has done a superb job with this wine. It is from a moderately small vineyard, only twenty-five acres, in the Côtes de Francs, a top quality production area close to Fronsac on the right bank of the Dordogne. Green-pruning, the reduction of the crop by cutting out some of the fruit, has helped to concentrate the flavour and bouquet which shows a tobacco leaf nose with clean mineral notes. The touch of green cassis flavour is overwhelmed by the spice, sturdy tannins and savoury characteristics. M6 D7
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 195
Michel Baucé with his son Raphaël
Silky, easy structure Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Red fruit in abundance, spice notes
Taste
Round tannins caress the palate leaving soft memories of the fruit
Serve
18° - 20° C
Evolution
Well on the way to maturity, drink 2010 - 2015
Ideal with
Grilled beef ribs with sweet-and-sticky barbecue sauce
Delightful, soft and ripe Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec
Aroma
Fine floral bouquet, attractive nuances of cedar and cassis
Taste
Rich, cassis fruit with a gentle tannic backdrop
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Delicious now, but it will be fine up to 2015
Ideal with
Cheeses, rich vegetarian dishes
An elegant blend featuring mouth-filling Merlot Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Small notes of two and three year old oak, good black fruit and berries presence
Taste
Rich berries on a backdrop of cherries and raspberries
Serve
19° C
Evolution
Showing good progress towards maturity, needs time to soften the green edges, drink 2010 - 2015
Ideal with
Balsamic lamb chops with pea purée
BORDEAUX VINOMA, PINEUILH, GIRONDE >>
5577
CHÂTEAU LAFON, AC LISTRAC-MÉDOC, CRU BOURGEOIS, 2006, FAMILLE THÉRON
Appealing fruit with mellow subtleties
$30.50
Grape Variety
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
Aroma
Open nose, spicy, tarry, savoury minerality
Taste
Lots of black fruit, a hint of greenness, a touch of smoky, spicy oak
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Ready, drink now and until 2014
Ideal with
Steak au poivre with Dijon cream sauce
6 BTLS/750 ML $183.00
Ken Christie’s tasting notes read, “I was immediately impressed by my first taste of this delicious example of its year. Once again, with the award of the annual right to describe it “cru bourgeois”, Marie-Hélène Théron-Yung, daughter of owner Jean-Pierre Théron, has made an outstanding example from a vintage that enjoyed success right across the Médoc.” The wine has a deep and rich colour that has lost signs of youth, but not its intensity. It offers a fragrant nose, showing some evolution. The flavours are gravelly and fruity with warm plums and blackberry pie. The palate is soft with ripe fruit bolstered by a mineral-edged structure and a hint of oak. Very approachable, the mid-weight claret is for current drinking. M7 D8
5578
CHÂTEAU FRANC LARTIGUE, AC SAINT-ÉMILION GRAND CRU, 2007, SCEA DES VIGNOBLES MARCEL PETIT
Ample and easily accessible fruit
$39.50
Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Blackcurrant fruit with herbs and attractive mineral nuances
Taste
Rich and spicy with sweet fruit and alcoholic heat
Serve
18° - 20° C
Evolution
A modern style that is a little closed now, drink 2010 - 2016
Ideal with
Grilled lamb chops with salmoriglio sauce
6 BTLS/750 ML $237.00
Bought by Marcel Petit in 1988, the property is small at only nineteen acres and situated in the heart of the Saint-Émilion appellation, in the town of Lartigue. It enjoys full sun exposure that ensures the fruit always reaches perfect ripeness. Since 1997, Marcel’s son-in-law, Jean Pierre Toxé, has been making the wines he matures for twelve months in mainly new French oak. Aromatic, with attractive blackberry and blackcurrant fruit on the nose, it is framed with appealing earthiness. The palate shows a combination of red and black fruits with firm, spicy tannins. As it warms in the mouth, there is softness and a touch of sweetness to the fruit. M6 D7
5579
CHÂTEAU ANDRON BLANQUET, AC SAINT-ESTÈPHE, CRU BOURGEOIS, 2007, BERNARD AUDOY
Needs time to open the treasure chest of flavour
$44.50
Grape Variety
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Lavish, a touch of spice, still closed
Taste
Blackcurrant fruit, high acidity, a juicy finish, good firm tannins
Serve
18° - 20° C
Evolution
The grip is lightening, it still needs more time, drink 2010 - 2018
Ideal with
Grilled lemon and garlic leg of lamb with coriander chutney, grilled garlic lime pork tenderloin
6 BTLS/750 ML $267.00
Following a lean period in the 1970’s, Bernard Audoy has brought this attractive fifteen hectare property into the limelight in Saint-Estèphe. Situated next to the famous Château Cos d’Estournel, this estate was purchased by the Audoy family, owner of Château Cos-Labory, in 1971. It is clean and savoury, with an austere nose showing blackcurrant, notes of smoke, herbs and tea. With youthful fruit, firm tannins and some spice, it has a tannic grip on the palate, typical of the village. This is a classic Saint-Estèphe, supple with fleshy fruitiness and an intense colour. M6 D7
5580
CHÂTEAU FERRAND, AC POMEROL, 2007, H. GASPAROUX ET FILS $49.33
6 BTLS/750 ML $296.00
Combining the finesse of Burgundy with the suave elegance of the Médoc, Pomerol produces the richest wines of Bordeaux. Perhaps this is due to the soil, a mixture of gravel and sand lying on top of soft tertiary sandstone containing iron oxides. The whole of the Pomerol comprises only 1750 acres. The nose is smoky with leaves that have a hint of greenness and some cigar box elements that begin to emerge. Dry and elegant, the prominent fine tannins harmonize perfectly with the red fruit and piquant spice. A restrained and complex wine, time will allow the fruit to develop power and the wine to reach its full potential. M6 D7 BORDEAUX VINOMA, PINEUILH, GIRONDE
Powerful, rich and expressive Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Quite open with dark fruits combining well with herbs, minerals and a hint of earthiness
Taste
Mid-weight minerals, black fruit supported by spicy tannins, green peppers
Serve
19° C
Evolution
Ready to drink, but it will improve as it matures
Ideal with
Grilled spicy fillets of beef
NOVA SCOTIA
13
Château Daugay
SEMAV - THE JOHNSTONS OF THE COURS DU MÉDOC Respect and tradition Johnston brothers, Denis, Archibald and Ivanhoé, continue the remarkable story of a Bordeaux Three family whose first chapter was written with the arrival from Ireland of the penniless Nathaniel Johnston in 1734. Through 270 years, the wealth of this eminent family has ebbed and flowed, as fortunes were made and sadly, lost. But, despite the vagaries of fate each succeeding generation held firm to a well-established tradition. The Johnstons are universally respected among the great dynastic families of this historical city.
5582
PRINCE PIRATE ROUGE, CUVÉE L’HIVER DES MÉDAILLES D’OR, VIN DE TABLE FRANÇAIS $10.17
12 BTLS/750 ML $122.00
The first offering from the Johnstons in 1974 featured this, one of the foundation stones of our Bordeaux offerings, the much loved Prince Pirate. Originally from the young vines of a classified Médoc Châteaux, each year a different cuvée gave access to a rather special, if light-bodied, wine. This year’s cuvée is dominated by ripe Merlot from the latest vintage. Gathered from three year old vines, it has a light, fruity bouquet with notes of plum and damson. In the mouth, initially rather acidic, the supple fusion of flavours shows good balance with a light, tannic finish. M8 D9
14
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 195
A good hearty red Grape Variety
Merlot
Aroma
Light berries, damp earth, stone fruit
Taste
Firm, subtle with sturdy tannins and herbaceous flavour
Serve
18° C
Evolution
An early drinking cuvée
Ideal with
Red onion tarte tatin
BORDEAUX SEMAV >>
5583
PRINCE PIRATE BLANC, VIN DE TABLE FRANÇAIS $10.17
5584
12 BTLS/750 ML $122.00
When the red Prince Pirate demonstrated the longevity of its popularity it became clear that there was a place for a white counterpoint. This, we decided, should be a fresh and light wine with sufficient weight and personality to make it interesting. To provide the bouquet and palate we decided on a blend of Sauvignon Blanc with a large component of Semillon to give the wine crispness and generosity. The fine bundle of aromas includes subtle notes of white flowers, nettles and elderberries with citrus notes. Clean, crisp and fruity, the citrus carries over to the zingy, fresh palate. [00] M8 D9
Grape Variety
Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadelle
Aroma
White flowers, citrus
Taste
Crisp, fresh and fruity
Serve
8° - 10° C
Evolution
Enjoy its youthful vitality
Ideal with
Baked trout with oven-baked vegetables
THE OPIMIAN SOCIETY’S CLARET, AC BORDEAUX
Fruity claret offering the structure you would expect from a mid-priced wine Merlot, Cabernet Franc Grape Variety
$14.25
12 BTLS/750 ML $171.00
To carry our label, we have tasted good values in our quest for wines that show the individuality of Bordeaux and express the terroir, that fine amalgamation of micro-climate with the geo-physical features of location and soil brought together by the harness of local tradition. The medium, deep red colour introduces a full nose of red and black fruits. The palate is soft and round with a delicate touch of fruit sweetness. The tannins bring a fine buzz of interest that lasts through to the finish and mingles with cherries and blackberries. M8 D8
5585
CHÂTEAU MARTINON BLANC, AC ENTRE-DEUXMERS, 2009, JÉRÔME TROLLIET $18.08
CHÂTEAU MARTINON ROUGE, AC BORDEAUX SUPÉRIEUR, 2008, JÉRÔME TROLLIET $18.00
Aroma
Black fruit and vanilla, reveals toasty aromas after aeration
Taste
Red berry fruit, easy, balanced, approachable
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Enjoyable this year and for the next two
Ideal with
Baked chicken with peas and rice
As fine an example of its type as is possible to find!
12 BTLS/750 ML $217.00
When Ivanhoé advised that there was little wine available of sufficient quality to offer for our Opimian Sauvignon Blanc label, we never thought that we would end up with this utterly superb white. It is quite fantastic, offering great quality, big characteristics and vivid flavours. Sparkling golden green in colour, the powerful nose shows the aromatic quality of the Muscadelle grape which built a bouquet reminiscent of vanilla, fresh butter, lemon and toasted almonds. On the palate, the appeal of zesty acidity finishes with exotic fruit and wild mint. [00] M8 D8
5586
Fresh and easy
12 BTLS/750 ML $216.00
There are close to sixty acres of red vines, all planted after 1980 when the talented artist, Jérôme Trolliet, took over the property from his mother. What an amazing metamorphosis since then. This is a fine example of talented winemaking showing complexity and all the concentration and finesse one has come to expect from this excellent Château. It is a wine made with an artist’s passion, showing ripe fruit, excellent concentration, balanced tannins and a long, lingering, dry finish. M7 D7
BORDEAUX SEMAV >>
Grape Variety
Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Gris, Muscadelle
Aroma
Lemon and lime curds, sweet herbs, ripe gooseberry, mineral notes
Taste
Driving purity of citrus amplified by rich nectarine, gooseberry and sweet herb
Serve
10° C
Evolution
A shot of pure juice racing over the palate, enjoy it just as it is
Ideal with
Slightly chilled, this will make a delicious aperitif
From an artist who exchanged canvas for terroir Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Ripe, mellow, tea, roses, cassis, vanilla, fine spice notes
Taste
Robust, a rich, mouth-filling medley of flavours
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Already soft and easy, good structure will secure lengthy development, drink 2011 - 2016
Ideal with
Spiced venison steaks with red-cabbage confit and red wine sauce
NOVA SCOTIA
15
5587
CHÂTEAU GRAND ANTOINE, AC BORDEAUX, 2008, PATRICK AND DANIEL BARRAT $19.00
6 BTLS/750 ML $114.00
This wine is from the peaceful heart of the Entre-deuxMers where the countryside gives way to vineyards, sunkissed meadows and meditative Limousin cattle. Over recent years Patrick and Daniel Barrat have upgraded their winery and vineyard so that today visitors find a thoroughly modern property producing wines with medium tannin for early drinking. The eighty acre vineyard is located on the south-facing slope of the Entre-deux-Mers which allows for efficient machine harvesting. Fermentation is temperaturecontrolled in steel tanks. Like many 2008 vintage wines, it shows a dark ruby red, a spicy aromatic nose and black fruit flavours. The lengthy palate is dominated by ripe berries intermingled with sweet and piquant spice. M7 D7
5588
CHÂTEAU CHANTE ALOUETTE, AC FRONSAC, 2008, EARL VIGNOBLES J B ROUX ET FILS $19.67
6 BTLS/750 ML $118.00
Although less known than many other parts of the Bordeaux region, Fronsac lies west of Saint-Émilion, on the banks of the Dordogne. It is much hillier than the Médoc across the river with small Châteaux nestling in the shelter of the undulating country. It also produces remarkably good wine that deserves a much higher profile. In the glass, a savoury nose with herbs and plums leads to a rich, mouthfilling palate with lovely weight and stone fruit concentration, balanced by mouth-watering acidity and soft tannins. The finish is long and elegant. This Merlot-dominated wine is very well put together and is quite forward, drinking superbly now. M7 D7
16
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 195
Typical of the wines the Bordelais enjoy with Sunday lunch, en famille Grape Variety
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Toasted nose, prunes and liquorice
Taste
Fleshy, robust, well-balanced, firm, lengthy finish
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Not quite ready, try a bottle from Autumn 2010
Ideal with
Grilled flank steak with sautéed portobello and cremini mushrooms
One of the best buys on the block Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Jammy nose of red currants, some pencil box spice
Taste
Lively strawberry fruit and a smooth, gentle finish
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Limited tannins make it soft and easy already, drink 2010 - 2014
Ideal with
Grilled pork chops with classic barbecue sauce
Château Moulin des Laurets
BORDEAUX SEMAV >>
5589
CHÂTEAU MOULIN DES LAURETS, AC PUISSEGUIN SAINT-ÉMILION, 2008, LIONEL AND MARIE-JO MOUNET $27.83
6 BTLS/750 ML $167.00
The soil, a mix of clay and limestone, is perfect for reds, providing low nutrients, but adequate water to nurture the growing grapes. For the first time in 2008 the Mounets brought in a machine harvester that was adapted to exclude all the debris from the vines so that their perfumed, black harvest arrived in the winery clean before the separated berries were crushed. The wine is attractive with an elegant and refined palate and appealing berry and cherry aromas. Spicy, blackcurrant flavours at the entry offer fine depth and length. A solid wedge of grainy tannins provides firm structure to the medium weight flavour that is ripe in the mid-palate and ends with a tongue-grabbing buzz of silky tannins. M6 D7
5590
CHÂTEAU TOUR SALVET, AC HAUT-MÉDOC, 2005, SCEA VIGNOBLES KOPP $30.67
6 BTLS/750 ML $184.00
It is an equal blend of barrel and vat-matured wine, dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon with a solid chunk of Merlot adding spice and fruit notes to the blend. The appearance in the glass is deep ruby from which flows a concentrated and rich array of aromas and flavours, especially blackcurrants, wild berries, leather, herbs, chocolate, vanilla, tobacco leaf and spices. The tannins are still quite tight, but they are well-integrated and add firm dimensions to the fruity structure which is beginning to soften and reveal the harmony of all the parts. M7 D8
5591
CHÂTEAU CROIX-MOUTON, AC BORDEAUX SUPÉRIEUR, 2007, JEAN-PHILIPPE JANOUEIX $34.33
6 BTLS/750 ML $206.00
Jean-Philippe Janoueix is one of those rare characters who have all the ideas and the passionate dedication that puts them to the test. Ruins show that the vineyard retained importance, gradually losing its focus until Jean-Philippe bought it and brought it back to life. This is really a “garagiste’s” wine, made in small volumes, literally by hand. The tasting notes read, “Extraordinary!” The dense purple colour is followed by a notable nose of earth, spring flowers, crème de cassis and a bowl of over-ripe raspberries. The fresh and crisp palate offers incredibly sweet tannins. M5 D6
5592
CHÂTEAU AMPÉLIA, AC CÔTES DE CASTILLON, 2007, MURIELLE AND FRANÇOIS DESPAGNE $35.33
6 BTLS/750 ML $212.00
Their fascination with ampelography, the field of botany which concentrates on the identification and classification of grapevines, lead to the naming of the Despagnes' wine. They bought the vineyard in 1999 and have poured in their passion ever since. The harvest is sorted on the vines, then again at the press house, before crushing, fermentation and four weeks of maceration. After the malolactic fermentation and eighteen months in cask, the best lots are bottled, the total production only 1800 cases of 100% barrel-aged red. Deep purple, the nose exudes preserved black fruit, toast and a swirl of tar. On the palate, it is silky from the first taste with tannins emerging to show it has superb ageing potential. M6 D6
BORDEAUX SEMAV >>
Picked and crushed when the sun was with them Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Damsons, black fruit, hints of fresh pepper, chocolate
Taste
Fruit-driven, modern-style claret, lots of fruit and carefully managed tannins
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Accessible even though it is still young
Ideal with
Loin of pork with mild blue cheese and toasted walnut butter
One of the last of the quality 2005s at a reasonable price Grape Variety
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Classic blackcurrant and cedar
Taste
Ample, juicy fruit, supple tannins, fine balancing acidity
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Enjoyable now, it still has four or five years to go
Ideal with
Braised lamb with flageolet beans
This is a treasure Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Rich, full, concentrated and succulent
Taste
Powerful with lovely mouth-watering freshness, rich with concentrated raspberry, blackberry and plum
Serve
18° C
Evolution
So much fruit that it can be enjoyed already, but it is really a wine for the long journey
Ideal with
Steak and kidney pudding
A smooth and juicy wine made by a great Saint-Émilion winemaker Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Enticing, brambles, black cherry, forest fruits
Taste
Round, rich and mouth-filling with cassis, balanced acidity and a long finish
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Huge potential for long keeping, drink 2012 2020
Ideal with
Grilled butterfly leg of lamb with lemon, thyme and rosemary
NOVA SCOTIA
17
5593
CHÂTEAU LE CONSEILLER, AC BORDEAUX SUPÉRIEUR, 2007, JEAN-PHILIPPE JANOUEIX $36.67
6 BTLS/750 ML $220.00
Among the sixteen Châteaux belonging to the Janoueix family, including seven Saint-Émilion and three Pomerol estates, this one is outside the great classic appellations and lies along the muddy banks of the River Dordogne and uses solely Merlot grapes. Like all the Janoueix wines, it is outstanding. Deep ruby red in the glass, this shows plums, flowers and pencil lead on the nose. Delicious, clean and fruity, the palate reveals damsons, black fruit, hints of fresh ground white pepper and chocolate on the finish. This modern, fruit-driven claret has the added bonus of being accessible when young. M6 D7
5594
CHÂTEAU VIEUX CLOS SAINT-ÉMILION, AC SAINTÉMILION GRAND CRU, 2008, SCEA TERRAS $43.50
6 BTLS/750 ML $261.00
This Château was the first “en primeur” wine ever offered by Opimian. As was the case then, the property is small, only eighteen acres, and sits alongside the walls of the town of Saint-Émilion. Picked by hand, the vinification was done in cement vats and stainless steel before careful wood ageing. Deep ruby in the glass, with concentrated black fruit and oak aromas, the wine is powerful on the palate. With classy wood treatment and a rich, sensuous structure, it is accessible, concentrated, supple and ends long. M5 D6
5595
CHÂTEAU TAYAC, AC MARGAUX, CRU BOURGEOIS, 2005, S.C. CHÂTEAU TAYAC $52.83
6 BTLS/750 ML $317.00
The Château has thirty hectares planted with vines in a shallow topsoil of limestone and clay over limestone rock. This is difficult to plough, but excellent for making wines of quality and finesse. The south-facing slopes are exposed to the Garonne and Dordogne rivers as they flow into the Gironde creating a microclimate that protects the vines from spring frosts. Medium-bodied and dry, the palate shows dark forest fruit, hints of cedar, oak smoke and spices. Well-integrated, the fine-grained tannins add grip and length. M8 D8
5596
CHÂTEAU GRAND CORBIN-DESPAGNE, AC SAINTÉMILION GRAND CRU, 2002, CONSORTS DESPAGNE $54.00
6 BTLS/750 ML $324.00
Owned and worked by François Despagne, the family has lived in Saint-Émilion since 1655, buying their first freehold vineyard in 1812 when they acquired the first plots of Chateau Grand Corbin. There are sixty-eight acres under vines on the northern side of the appellation hard along the border with Pomerol, whose wines are similar in style. Typically, it is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon in proportions that produce ripe blackberry and plum flavours. The grapes are fermented in a combination of temperature-controlled stainless steel and concrete vats, before transfer to oak barrels for twelve to fifteen months. The Château produces wines with opulence and concentration. M8 D8
18
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 195
Structured, thick and long Grape Variety
Merlot
Aroma
Elegant, attractive berry and cherry
Taste
Piquant sweet spice, blackcurrants with silky tannins and a firmly structured finish
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Easy and attractive upfront fruit cannot hide its potential for further ageing
Ideal with
Roasted rib-eye steak with herbed mustard sauce and root vegetables
An old favourite with a long life ahead Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Spicy, ripe black fruit
Taste
Concentrated, sweet fruit, ripe tannic structure
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Benefiting from long experience, we predict this to have at least 15 years ahead
Ideal with
Grilled venison steak with ham, provolone and mushroom sauce
The small Petit Verdot addition makes a notable difference to the structure Grape Variety
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot
Aroma
Intense, sweet Cabernet fruit, dark fruit is in charge with oak playing a supporting role
Taste
Clean, dark berry fruit with softness from the Merlot
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Mature and ready, but there is no need to hurry
Ideal with
Grilled lemon and garlic leg of lamb with coriander chutney
A most exciting wine, supple and elegant style Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon
Aroma
Rich, concentrated fruit, powerful notes
Taste
Deep, blackberry finish that goes on and on, smooth, silky and sophisticated
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Perfectly matured in the cellars of the Château
Ideal with
A roasted fine cut of well-hung venison
BORDEAUX SEMAV >>
Winter arrives at Château Chante Alouette
5597
CHÂTEAU DAUGAY, AC SAINT-ÉMILION GRAND CRU, 2005, CHRISTIAN DE BOUÄRD DE LAFOREST $55.00
6 BTLS/750 ML $330.00
The wine is as aristocratic as its owner, Christian de Bouärd de Laforest. Managed entirely by his daughter, Hélène Grenié de Bouärd, the property lies just a short distance from the famous steeple of the Saint-Émilion church, with vines spread across the south-facing hillside next to the famous Château Angélus, of which it was once an integrated part. Hélène is also the winemaker and co-owner of Château Angélus and therefore uses their facilities for both wines. Unusual for Saint-Émilion, only half the vines are Merlot, the rest are Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. This gives the wine remarkable intensity and concentration. Poised and elegant, it is simply fabulous with a deep black colour, cassis on the nose and a well of ample, steadily maturing fruit. M6 D6
5598
20 MILLE, AC BORDEAUX SUPÉRIEUR, 2007, JEANPHILIPPE JANOUEIX $69.67
6 BTLS/750 ML $418.00
In 2000, Jean-Philippe planted three acres of Merlot in his Château Croix-Mouton vineyard. This was no ordinary exercise, but one with twenty thousand vines per hectare, three times the norm. Additionally, the rows were set out in a fan shape so that sun would fall on the vines for longer periods each day. The plot of the vines, just a few yards from the Dordogne, is deep clay and alluvial mud. Everything is done by hand; neither the plants nor the wines ever see a machine. Only two bunches are developed per vine, giving a very low, but massively concentrated yield. After cold-soaking and fermentation the wines are matured in Jean-Philippe’s unique cigar-shaped casks which impart oak tannins more effectively while protecting the fruit flavours. This is a fabulous wine made by a visionary of the wine world. M5 D5
BORDEAUX SEMAV
Vineyards at Château Moulin des Laurets
The exemplary standards set at Château Angélus found here too Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon
Aroma
Concentrated, ripe, black cherries
Taste
Luscious, rich damsons and plums, big, soft, grainy tannins
Serve
18° C
Evolution
There is still little sign of the greatness to come, but it is softening evenly, drink 2011 - 2020
Ideal with
Roast rib of beef with traditional trimmings
It will blow your socks off! Grape Variety
Merlot
Aroma
Cassis, earth, bitter chocolate, tons of ripe berries, liquorice, leather
Taste
Massive, spicy, full-bodied, moderately tannic structure supports fantastic fruit
Serve
18° C
Evolution
The fruit is easy, but it is still an infant, try one bottle to evaluate the weight, then put it away
Ideal with
Oven-roasted beef with traditional vegetables and Yorkshire pudding
NOVA SCOTIA
19
VINTEX ET LES VIGNOBLES GRÉGOIRE
the long established Bordeaux négociant for A new way of looking at Bordeaux When whom Bill Blatch worked was inexplicably shut down by its British owners, Bill had two choices, to return to the U.K. or to stay in France. Fortunately he chose the latter, starting his own company and focussing on bringing improvements to the wines of small Châteaux where the production of dull, empty wines was the norm. Over the years Bill’s company has flourished and as it became more important, so his reach and influence became more prominent. It is fair to suggest that the “New Wave” started by Bill Blatch a couple of decades ago has now washed over Bordeaux bringing improvements both to the wines and the economy of many small producers.
Château de Crain
5600
LA FLEUR D’OR, AC SAUTERNES, 2006 $27.17
6 BTLS/375 ML $163.00
This is an outstanding wine, blended in the Vintex cellars for wine lovers who enjoy glorious dessert wines. Bill Blatch explains that during his travels through Sauternes and Barsac he frequently meets small producers who have insufficient wine to bottle themselves. This presents Bill with an opportunity to buy, blend and bottle the small lots of golden nectar. Light gold in colour, the aromas of ripe fruit mingle with the honeyed notes of botrytis. Mouth-watering, creamy and gloriously sweet, it reveals a satin and lime acid accented concentration of extract. [08] M5 D8
20
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 195
Energy and grape sugar making a sweet siren song Grape Variety
Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc
Aroma
Quince, lime, honey, peach
Taste
The huge concentration is almost muted by the finesse of the acidity that balances the sugars
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Just starting out on a long road, but plenty of opportunities to try it out on the way
Ideal with
Raspberry and honey crème brûlée
BORDEAUX VINTEX ET LES VIGNOBLES GRÉGOIRE >>
5601
CHÂTEAU DE CRAIN, AC ENTRE-DEUX-MERS, 2009 $18.50
6 BTLS/750 ML $111.00
When mushroom farmers Michel and Bernard Fougère wanted to buy this property they wanted it only for the extensive underground quarries, but found that they were required to buy the vineyard and Château as well. With a successful agricultural background, they started to make wine as a passion. Now, Michel’s daughter Anne, a graduate oenologist from the University of Bordeaux, has taken over the winemaking. She produces lively whites with a refined and steely edge, a fresh nose with lemon and grapefruit tones, supple texture and good balance between acidity and alcohol. This wine is perfect for drinking young. [00] M8 D8
5602
CHÂTEAU LABATUT-BOUCHARD, AC BORDEAUX BLANC, 2009, VALÉRIE AND FRÉDÉRIC MÉHAYE $18.67
6 BTLS/750 ML $112.00
Valérie and Frédéric Méhaye present an equal blend of the two major white Bordeaux grape varieties, Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc. Each brings its distinctive qualities to the cuvée, with the ripe flavours of the Semillon adding silky smoothness and structure to the lively apple, lime, melon and peach of the Sauvignon Blanc. The mouth-feel is full, a mixture of fresh milky notes with cream and nut kernels that together give concentrated energy and length. There is the promise of an interesting future while it is already sufficiently succulent for a glass or two. [00] M7 D8
5603
CHÂTEAU ROQUEFORT, SAUVIGNON-SEMILLON, AC BORDEAUX BLANC, 2009 $23.33
6 BTLS/750 ML $140.00
The wines from Jean Bellanger’s fine estate have been firm Opimian favourites since Bill Blatch’s first offering of “New Wave” Bordeaux almost twenty years ago. Jean replanted his vineyard in 1980 intending to concentrate solely on fragrant, spicy and clean whites. He followed his dream and has only been interested in enhancing the aromatic qualities of his Sauvignon Blanc; the proportion of this grape still accounts for over 90% of the blend. Fédéric Bellanger has taken over from his father with the same determination. Cool fermentation in stainless steel has produced a light and clearcoloured wine with an aroma laden nose that sings of red capsicum and sun ripe hay with excellent length and scintillating freshness. [00] M8 D8
5604
CHÂTEAU DE LA RIVIÈRE, AC BORDEAUX ROSÉ, 2009, VIGNOBLES GRÉGOIRE $21.17
6 BTLS/750 ML $127.00
The Château stands on top of a steep slope in a dominant position above the vineyards and surrounding countryside. Its wines lead their rivals among the Fronsac vineyards. The vines include all the Bordeaux classics, but Merlot is easily the most dominant. This delicate and delicious pink attests to the wholesome and joyful drinkability of that variety. A bright and attractive cherry pink in the glass, the nose and palate show ripe raspberries, rose petals and wild strawberries with fine sappy acidity, energetic youth and medium weight in the mouth. [00] M8 D8
BORDEAUX VINTEX ET LES VIGNOBLES GRÉGOIRE >>
Silver and golden colour, the emphasis is on fruit quality Grape Variety
Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadelle
Aroma
Light fragrant blossom, lime-scented froth
Taste
Plump, ripe fruit, flowers, tinged with limes, apple and mandarin
Serve
9° C
Evolution
Attractive now
Ideal with
Fillet of white fish in a fennel cream sauce
Satin smooth, light but energetic Grape Variety
Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc
Aroma
Hint of toast, lychees, freshly baked shortbread with peach jam
Taste
Light and flavoursome, intense peach notes
Serve
8° - 11° C
Evolution
Delicious already, but it will endure
Ideal with
Scallops in basil sauce
An explosion of aromas Grape Variety
Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon
Aroma
Ripe tropical fruit, straw and hay
Taste
Mineral-touched, slate, zippy citric acidity, pink grapefruit
Serve
9° C
Evolution
Ready this year
Ideal with
Watercress and spring onion quiche
Sensational wine bursting with fruit flavours Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Fragrant, floral notes, red berries
Taste
Delicate, a balanced and polished finish, dry style
Serve
10° C
Evolution
It will show well through the next year
Ideal with
Thai Green Chicken Curry, warm duck salad
NOVA SCOTIA
21
5605
CHÂTEAU BELLEVUE ROUGIER, AC BORDEAUX, 2007 $17.33
6 BTLS/750 ML $104.00
The Lobre family have nurtured their vines for four generations. During the hay days of Bordeaux Blanc the vineyards were planted with white varieties, but after the devastating frosts of 1956, they were replanted with red vines. Spreading like a quilt over the undulating landscape, it has a low nutrient soil of clay over limestone, a great terroir for Merlot. Jean Lobre prunes his vines high to maximize leaf photosynthesis before August leaf-pruning in preparation for picking. The wine has strong, mineral characteristics with the warmth of ripe Merlot as its central core. Tannins are present, but not aggressive, giving it easy and accessible fruit and a fine level of red berries. M8 D8
5606
CHÂTEAU LABATUT-BOUCHARD, AC PREMIÈRES CÔTES DE BORDEAUX, 2006, VALÉRIE AND FRÉDÉRIC MÉHAYE $22.50
6 BTLS/750 ML $135.00
One of a young generation of innovative winemakers, Frédéric Méhaye has modern ideas about vineyard management and winemaking on his one hundred acre property which overlooks the Garonne southeast of Bordeaux. During the 2006 vintage, the vineyard benefitted from the exceptionally warm micro-climate that advanced ripening of the fruit. However, Frédéric, risking poor weather, waited for the grapes to reach total ripeness before he called in machine harvesters, picking the vintage in less than a day. Traditional vinification was entirely in stainless steel and concrete vats at relatively high temperatures prior to clarification and ageing in tank for twelve months. M7 D7 Valérie and Frédéric Méhaye of Château Labatut-Bouchard
22
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 195
Shows an easy swagger that is very appealing Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
An adornment of sappy fruit and floral notes
Taste
Supple, easy tannins
Serve
16° - 18° C
Evolution
Made for reasonably early drinking, it is just about right now
Ideal with
Grilled swordfish
Moderately deep colour, a dish of juicy black berries Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Cassis, fruit sweet fragrance
Taste
Supple flavours, ripe tannins
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Showing signs of maturity, a modern and easily accessed palate, drink 2011 - 2015
Ideal with
Veal and olive casserole with wild rice
Vines at Clos Sainte-Anne
BORDEAUX VINTEX ET LES VIGNOBLES GRÉGOIRE >>
5607
CHÂTEAU VIEUX DOMINIQUE, RÉSERVE, AC BORDEAUX SUPÉRIEUR, 2006 $22.67
6 BTLS/750 ML $136.00
Cyrille Grégoire, part owner of Vintex, makes this wine entirely from Merlot grapes. The Château shares the property with Bois Noirs, named after the copse of pine trees that originally gave cover to the house in winter. Come summertime, the clay soil retains sufficient water to allow the grapes to swell and ripen naturally to perfect maturity. Cyrille has passionately adopted a regime of minimum intervention in the vineyard and in the winery, using an absolute minimum of chemical treatments. As he says, “I want my wines to speak for themselves”. This wine was specifically made to drink early in order to showcase the fine Merlot cassis and spice characteristics. M8 D8
5608
CHÂTEAU JOUANIN, CUVÉE PRESTIGE, AC CÔTES DE CASTILLON, 2006, SARL DE FONGABAN $23.17
6 BTLS/750 ML $139.00
Owner Georges Taïx adopted the techniques inherited from Nathalie Arnaud, a trainee installed at the property, to control the production of two tanks of wine for Vintex. Nathalie, then recently returned from several years in Australia, introduced a number of techniques she learned Down Under, including cold-soaking of the fruit prior to crushing. Today, Georges’ son Pierre has taken over as winemaker continuing with the techniques that have brought much success with each vintage. The wine is showing great sweetness with the softness of ripe Merlot and a pleasant note of oak spice. With less emphasis on tannin, the fleshy fruit is heightened in the mid-palate. M7 D7
5609
CHÂTEAU BEL-AIR, LA CHAPELLE, AC CÔTES DE CASTILLON, 2005 $31.50
6 BTLS/750 ML $189.00
This fine property lies in rolling countryside northwest of Saint-Émilion where Merlot is king. This year we have persuaded the owner to make his impressive 2005 vintage available at a notable price. Super ripe, the Merlot gives a Rhône-ish concentration of power and richness. The cuvée was made, barrel by barrel, each one tasted three times a year by owner Patrick David with his consultant Marc Quertinier, with only those casks that gained marks in the top half making the final blend. It is outstanding! M8 D8
5610
CLOS SAINTE-ANNE, AC PREMIÈRES CÔTES DE BORDEAUX, 2007 $33.17
Already well-structured Grape Variety
Merlot
Aroma
Spicy, mulberry, coffee, plums
Taste
Warm fruit, coffee, cinnamon
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Made to drink young, drink 2010 - 2012
Ideal with
Pheasant and wild mushroom risotto
Originally a “garagiste” producer, Georges Taïx has slipped easily into his new role Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Mineral, coffee, ripe fruit
Taste
Clean, sweet fruit, a mineral edge
Serve
19° C
Evolution
Demonstrates how Merlot can age well
Ideal with
Cold sirloin of beef with mustard sauce
Great wine from a great vintage Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon
Aroma
Soft burr of oak, ripe fruit nose
Taste
Spicy, piquant, pleasing roundness
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Perfectly mature and ready
Ideal with
Chicken sesame seed goujons with sweet and sour sauce
Aromatic intensity with spices and ripe fruit
6 BTLS/750 ML $199.00
It is difficult to describe just how good the wines from this small vineyard can be. Marie, daughter of Francis Courselle, owner of Château Thieuley, bought the place to make a home while realizing that the property had belonged to Yves Pardes, the retired directeur of Château Petrus. If the last owner believed that tannic red wine was for men, sisters Marie and Sylvie prefer to steer their wine into a more approachable, fruit-generous style. It has a deep, black colour with a harmonious bouquet, mellow softness and opulent fruit flavours. M6 D7
BORDEAUX VINTEX ET LES VIGNOBLES GRÉGOIRE
Grape Variety
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
Aroma
Bright, youthful red fruit, soft notes
Taste
Warming palate, glowing with intense fruit and tannic muscle
Serve
16° - 18° C
Evolution
Masses of easy fruit supported by forceful tannins, needs a little more time
Ideal with
Duck breast with a lime confit
NOVA SCOTIA
23
COUPON PROGRAMS
WINE PROGRAMS
Refer a new member, and upon joining, the new member will receive a Free Case Coupon and you will receive a Referral Case Coupon.
OPIMIAN SELECT
WWW.OPIM.CA or 800-361-9421 NEW MEMBERS With your valid Free Case Coupon, choose one of the 6 bottle cases listed below, with the order of any other case on the same Cellar Offering (excluding Opimian Select and Founders’ Choice). REFERRING MEMBERS With your valid Referral Case Coupon, choose one of the 6 bottle cases listed below, with the order of any other case on the same Cellar Offering (excluding Opimian Select and Founders’ Choice) OR Redeem your valid Referral Case Coupon for a Wine Credit (based on tenure) and apply against a case of your choice, with the order of any other case on the same Cellar Offering (excluding Opimian Select and Founders’ Choice).
CHÂTEAU MOULIN DE LAUNAY, AC ENTRE-DEUX-MERS, 2008, CLAUDE AND BERNARD GREFFIER COUPON
FOUNDERS’ CHOICE
Receive one premium wine (6 bottles) from Opimian’s most trusted suppliers. Every Founders’ Choice selection features a dedicated back label and we provide a detailed description of each wine region, terroir, winemaking style, grape type, and food match.
6 BTLS/750 ML
Packaged in cases of 6, this is the same wine as lot 5567, available only with the coupon as explained above.
5566
Receive a mixed case (6 bottles) from a region’s most representative wines from every offering. This is a great way to sample the many styles, grape varietals, and terroir from the world’s best wine-producing regions.
A Collection of Premium Wines
YOUR FREE CASE CHOICES FOR THIS CELLAR OFFERING
5565
A Selection of our Wines
CHÂTEAU LES BOIS NOIRS, AC BORDEAUX, ORGANIC, 2009, MICHEL BAUCÉ
The Founders’ Choice feature supplier is SEMAV.
opim.ca COUPON
6 BTLS/750 ML
These wines are not available on the Cellar Offering and can only be ordered through reserving on these programs. For an application, please visit our website, www.opim.ca, “Downloads” section OR call us at 800-361-9421.
Packaged in cases of 6, this is the same wine as lot 5571, available only with the coupon as explained above.
CONDITIONS OF PURCHASE FOR CELLAR OFFERING 195
• Bottle prices are for reference only. All orders are by the case, with no minimum nor maximum required.
• 4 ways to order: Online: www.opim.ca Email at: opim@opim.ca Phone: 800-361-9421 Fax: 514-481-9699
• Last day to order for this Cellar Offering: May 3, 2010
• A valid 2010 membership card is required to order and pick up.
• Expected arrivals at Canadian Port: End of August, 2010. Arrival dates at liquor boards depend on their distances from port of entry.
• Methods of Payment: Credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) or by cheque made out to Opimian in Trust.
• Release dates: Dependent upon actual arrival dates, and processing time required by each liquor board. • Your order status: Updated weekly at www.opim.ca.
SYMBOLS
Members’ Choice
White
Drink this year
Red
Enjoyable now; will develop 6 months-2 years
This symbol denotes wines most ordered by Opimian members. These are consistently popular with our membership at large.
Opimian Suggests
Rosé
Heavy oak
Medium concentration
Light in body
Medium oak
Light oak
Less than 100 cs available
Extremely limited quantities
Very limited quantities
Limited quantities
Degrees of Maturity (M) (Scale of 1-10) 1 = lay down 10 = fully mature Degrees of Drinkability (D) (Scale of 1-10) 1 = needs time 10 = ready to drink Prices include all applicable federal and provincial mark ups and taxes, including G.S.T & H.S.T #R 105 233 217 • Q.S.T #1000640430
Appeared in the C188 Select Cases (2009 Season)
To help novice members, this symbol is a guide to wines that are suitable for starting a cellar, and/or for drinking within two years of delivery.
Wine meant for laying down
Sparkling
Great concentration
Medal Winner
Sweetness scale
gms/litre
00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10
0-3 4-6 7 - 12 13 - 20 21 - 34 35 - 50 51 - 74 75 - 100 101 - 139 140 - 179 180 >
Examples Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, many reds Some New World Varietals, some reds Champagne, Sparklers, Rosés, few reds Mosel, some Alsace, Anjou Semi-sweet Bordeaux, some sherry Kabinett German, Late Harvest, Alsace, dry White Port Spätlese German, Sweet Loire, Port, Dessert Muscat Auslese, Beerenauslese Ice Wines, Sauternes, Barsac, dessert wines, Port Ice Wines, Sauternes, Barsac, dessert wines, Port Speciality sweet wines, Trockenbeerenauslese
#420 - 5165 Sherbrooke West, Montreal, QC, H4A 1T6 T: 514-483-5551 or 800-361-9421 F: 514-481-9699 opim@opim.ca www.opim.ca